Poetry

Crossing Stones - Helen Frost

Frost, Helen. 2009. CROSSING STONES. New York; Frances Foster Books. ISBN9780374316532

 
In this verse novel, Frost builds a story that is emotionally told from the perspective of three different characters.  The use of shape poems help identify which character is speaking as well as giving insight into each characters personality.  The setting is rich in historical events, but told with a very personal, reflective tone. Each character's perspective is enriched by the choices they make throughout the story. Throughout the story characters must reach for the good things that lay past all of the horrible events that happen in life.

Since the story is told from the perspective of three different characters, the poems are presented in a concrete form.  The shape of the poem reflects the personality of each character.  Muriel's verses are presented in the shape of a river to portray her "meandering mind".  Both Emma's and Ollie's poems are written in the shape of an apple. This is an indication of the connection the two will share throughout the story, but also shows a consistency in both characters.

The author also uses language to reflect the dialect of characters. Ruby, a recent immigrant form Denmark transposes words so that the language appears broken, but stills hold meaning.  The author also uses language that is rich in imagery that produces emotion.  Phrases like "all her money, a stream of warm coins poured from one of her old socks into my hands." allows the reader to feel that the love between Muriel and her sister, Grace, is a rich, warm blessing shared by both sisters.     

School Library Journal review: “Frost’s warmly sentimental novel covers a lot of political, social, and geographical ground . . . . But this is Muriel’s story, and her determined personality and independence will resonate with readers." 
Horn Book review:  “The distinct voices of the characters lend immediacy and crispness to a story of young people forced to grow up too fast.”
Kirkus Reviews: "Heartbreaking yet ultimately hopeful, this is one to savor.”

*Pair this book with another book set during WWI
Murporgo, Michael. 2002. WAR HORSE. ISBN 9780749748500
 
*Other books by Helen Frost:
KEESHA'S HOUSE. ISBN 9780374400125
THE BRAID. ISBN 9780374309626
DIAMOND WILLOW. ISBN 9780312603830
HIDDEN. ISBN 9780374382216